The European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, commonly known as Eurofound, is a tripartite European Union Agency established in 1975. Its mission is to provide knowledge to assist in the development of better social, employment, and work-related policies across Europe.
Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, Eurofound is managed by an executive director who reports to a Management Board comprising representatives from EU Member States, social partners, the European Commission, and an independent expert appointed by the European Parliament. The agency employs around 100 staff members from various Member States, bringing a diverse range of professional experiences and backgrounds.
Eurofound conducts extensive research on working conditions, sustainable work, industrial relations, and labor market changes. It publishes comprehensive reports and data visualizations, such as the European Working Conditions Telephone Survey (EWCTS) 2021, which covered over 70,000 workers in 36 countries. This research provides valuable insights into job quality, working conditions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on employment across Europe.
The agency's work supports EU institutions, governments, employers, trade unions, and civil society organizations in shaping and implementing social and employment policies. Eurofound also maintains a Brussels Liaison Office to strengthen the visibility and impact of its research at the EU level and monitor policymaking developments. Through its research and expertise, Eurofound aims to contribute to better living and working conditions in Europe.